Spider Veins: Why They Appear & How Laser Treatment Can Actually Help

15.11.25 07:01 AM

Spider veins… tiny, colourful little lines that decide to show up uninvited on your skin. They’re super common, completely harmless, but yes — undeniably annoying. If you’ve ever wondered why they appear or whether laser treatment truly works, let’s break it down in a simple, client-friendly way.

So… What Are Spider Veins Exactly?

Spider veins (also called telangiectasia) are small, dilated blood vessels close to the skin’s surface.

They usually look:

red

-purple

-blue

-like tiny branches or webs

They can appear anywhere, but most commonly:

-on the legs

-around the nose

-on the cheeks

-on the chin

They don’t indicate poor health — but they can impact how you feel about your skin.

Why Do Spider Veins Happen?

There isn’t just one reason — it’s usually a combination of factors.

1. Genetics (the big one)

If your parents have them, you’re more likely to get them too.

Your vessel walls may simply be more prone to weakening over time.

2. Sun Damage

UV exposure breaks down collagen and elastin around the vessels.

When the supporting structure weakens → vessels dilate → spider veins appear.

This is especially common around the nose and cheeks.

3. Hormones

Major hormone shifts can trigger broken capillaries, especially:

-pregnancy

-menopause

-birth control

-puberty

Estrogen makes vessels relax, which sometimes leads to dilation.

4. Pressure & Lifestyle

Long periods of:

-standing

-sitting

-intense exercise

-lifting

-can push blood flow in ways that encourage vessel dilation.

5. Trauma to the Skin

Even something simple like:

-blowing your nose too hard

-facial waxing

-harsh squeezing/extractions

-can pop tiny capillaries.

Fitzpatrick Skin Type Considerations

This is very important for spider vein treatment.

Fitz 1–3

-Laser works extremely well

-Low risk of pigmentation

-Spider veins usually respond quickly

Fitz 4–6

Laser can still work beautifully — but settings must be adjusted.

Darker skin contains more melanin, which can compete for laser energy.

This means:

-more conservative energy

-more spaced-out sessions

-strict post-care to prevent PIH

-sometimes alternative wavelengths are recommended

At Velverra, we always tailor energy levels to both your vessel depth and your Fitzpatrick type to keep treatments safe and effective.

How Laser Treats Spider Veins

Laser targets oxyhemoglobin (the pigment in blood).

The vessel absorbs the energy → heats up → collapses → fades over time.

You may notice:

-Immediate darkening

-Light swelling

-Then gradual fading over 4–8 weeks

Some veins disappear in one treatment

Some require 2–4 sessions

Deep or stubborn veins may need a combination approach.

**What Results Can You Realistically Expect?**

Transparency always wins — so here’s the truth.

**You can expect:**

-visible fading

-clearer skin

-reduction in redness

-smoother complexion

-restored confidence

**You shouldn’t expect:**

-instant erasure

-zero downtime

-permanent prevention

-full correction in one session

Spider veins can return over time due to genetics, hormones, or lifestyle.

Maintenance every 12–24 months is completely normal.

How To Keep Results Looking Great

Think of spider veins like weeds in a garden — you can remove them, but prevention is key.

-Wear SPF every day

-Avoid extreme heat on treatment areas

-Strengthen your barrier with gentle skincare

-Limit harsh facial rubbing or exfoliation

-Support vascular health with a balanced lifestyle

-Get touch-ups when needed

And if you’re doing tattoo removal, carbon facials, or laser genesis in between — we time everything carefully so your skin isn’t overloaded.

How We Handle It at Velverra

We don’t just zap and go.

We assess:

-your Fitzpatrick type

-your vessel depth

-whether they’re vascular or pigment-based

-your medical history

-your goals

Then we customise your treatment plan so you get safe, consistent, beautiful results without compromising your skin health.

Final Thoughts

Spider veins are incredibly normal — but if they bother you, laser treatment can genuinely make a huge difference. With the right technology, settings, and aftercare, you can expect smoother, clearer, brighter-looking skin.

If you ever want help assessing your skin, planning treatment, or choosing the right aftercare, Velerra is always here for you 💛.